1 Check the GPS settings

Is your GPS set to WGS84? Does it show true or magnetic? Is it accounting for variation? All of these settings can be changed (and may well have been by a previous skipper) so get into those settings and get things set up as you want them to be.

2 Always zoom right in on vector charts

Credit: Navionics

When using vector charts always keep in mind that the dangers are hidden until you zoom in to the appropriate layer.

Don’t become a victim of unseen hazards.

Once you have your route in place, zoom right in and check, check, check.

3 Don’t put your waypoint on a hazard!

Credit: Alamy

Yes, even a buoy is a hazard if you inadvertently drive into it. This really applies if you have turned on your autopilot and it is following a route.

If you ever get to this point it suggests you were not paying anything like close enough attention anyway.

4 Put your waypoints somewhere meaningful

CREDIT: Rick Tomlinson/RORC

With GPS charting it is particularly easy to be lazy in placing your waypoints.

Will you really head two miles past a headland before turning, or should that waypoint be much closer in?